Veteran filmmaker Wale Adenuga has dismissed allegations of financial neglect and exploitation by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, who portrays the iconic “Papa Ajasco” character, as false and misleading.

The controversy follows a viral interview where Ayoyinka claimed he was broke, lacked personal assets like a car or house, and was restricted by trademark laws from independently monetizing the character.

A statement by the chairman of the Wale Adenuga Productions dismissed allegations of exploitation and financial neglect by the actor, describing such narratives as “entirely false and misleading.”

Recall that Ayoyinka, popularly known for his role as Papa Ajasco, had in a recent interview alleged that trademark of the character he played, limited his opportunities outside the long-running comedy series.

But in a rebuttal, Adenuga said his initial reaction to the trending video of Ayoyinka was one of surprise, stating “My first impression when I watched the Papa Ajasco video now trending on the internet and local TV channels was ‘Okay, so this guy has taken Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space?

“It is all well and good. I am happy for him, as his money-making strategy using social media has apparently worked for him.”

While acknowledging Ayoyinka’s talent and contribution, Adenuga stressed that the “Papa Ajasco” brand remains legally protected.

“He cannot use the copyrighted brand name Papa Ajasco for personal ventures because it is our duty to protect the brand from inappropriate usage that could damage its reputation,” he said.

He further clarified that the actor is not restricted from taking up other jobs: “He has not been barred from accepting advert jobs… all that is required is to seek official approval from WAP. This is part of brand protection.”

Adenuga went on to highlight Ayoyinka’s background as a retired civil servant, noting that he served over three decades with the Lagos State Government.

He also disclosed that the actor had benefited from several incentives over the years.

“On the car issue, we once gave him a car and Pa James as well. He has also used not less than five cars, including a Mercedes-Benz, at different times,” Adenuga stated.

Questioning claims of financial hardship, he asked: “Why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service… What happened to his gratuities?”

Adenuga also noted that other cast members of the series, including Pa James and other popular characters, continue to take on independent roles outside the show.

He explained the production structure, saying: “Abiodun Ayoyinka and other artistes in the TV show are on our set for six weeks in a whole year, thereby availing them enough time to pursue other endeavours.”

He added that within that period, “we record enough episodes to last for a year.”

Reaffirming the company’s reputation, Adenuga stated: “Wale Adenuga Productions has remained reputable over the years.The organisation pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as and when due.”

He concluded by reiterating that “any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organization is entirely false and misleading.”

Veteran Nigerian gospel music icon and evangelist Toun Soetan, popularly known as Evangelist Shouet passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the age of 73.

A legendary figure in the Ibadan gospel music scene, she was widely celebrated for her contributions to Christian worship across several decades.

Her death was confirmed on Friday by gospel comedian Woli Agba in a post shared on social media.

Announcing the development, he wrote, “The message remained the same. The lifestyle remained that which glorifies Jesus. Your transition into Glory to meet The Lord Jesus happened today.

“Our dear Legendary Mummy Toun Soetan… Mummy, sing with the Angels. Mummy, wow, goodnight. May God be with our beloved daddy and the family.”

Gospel musician Peter Olaniyi also confirmed the death, describing the late singer as a legend in the Nigerian gospel music community.

“We just lost another legend this morning, Mummy Toun Soetan. May the Lord be with the family and Daddy Titus Soetan. Please let’s commiserate with the family,” he said.

Tributes have continued to pour in from gospel artistes and admirers who described the late singer as an inspiration and mentor to many in the music ministry.

Gospel artiste Bukola Omowaye said Soetan played a major role in shaping her spiritual and musical journey.

“Mama, heaven’s gain. The only time I had the opportunity to minister alongside Mummy Toun Soetan was a moment I cherished so much,” she wrote, recounting how she first encountered the late singer’s music as a child through her parents’ television.

She added that Soetan’s teachings at worship gatherings and music programmes helped strengthen her Christian faith and ministry.

Another gospel artiste, Shola Adesina, also paid tribute, describing the late singer as a peaceful and graceful woman.

“Mummy Toun Soetan. Rest on ma. Had the privilege of one-on-one experience with mam during Celebrating the Legend. She’s so peaceful and full of grace. May your gentle soul rest in peace ma,” Adesina said.

Also reacting to the development, former Secretary of the Entertainment Writers Association of Nigeria in Oyo State, Kunle Bakare, described the late singer as a God-sent musician whose gospel lyrics were deeply rooted in Christian teachings.

“The late gospel music player will also be remembered for her music college, where she trained so many gospel music players, most of whom are reigning today,” Bakare said.

Born Racheal Olatoun Soetan in Lagos, the late gospel minister grew up in the Beere–Oke Are area of Ibadan. She was one of 28 children in her family and was originally raised in a Muslim background.

Her spiritual journey took a new turn in 1974 after she attended a revival service at Oritamefa Baptist Church, where she had a profound Christian experience that later shaped her music ministry.

Before fully committing to ministry, Soetan worked as a teacher for 16 years at Oritamefa Baptist School. She later became co-proprietress of Pathfinder College, a school founded by her husband, while continuing her music and ministry work.

Over a career spanning more than four decades, she became widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s pioneering gospel singers, known for spiritually themed songs such as “Train Up Your Child” and “Darling Jesus.”

Her music, characterised by rich harmonies and strong biblical messages, inspired generations of gospel musicians and worshippers across Nigeria.

Soetan is survived by her husband, Titus Soetan, family members, and a large community of gospel ministers and followers influenced by her life and ministry.

Nollywood actor and producer Rotimi Salami recently expressed deep concern over the poor performance and low audience turnout for his latest film, “Kilanko,” in Nigerian cinemas.

The movie, which hit theaters on March 6, 2026, was a labor of love that took three years to produce and was directed by the late Allwell Ademola.

In an Instagram post, Salami, in a video with veteran actress Yetunde Wunmi, revealed that the movie’s weekend sales were disappointing, putting it at risk of removal from theaters.

Appealing to fans for support, Salami thanked those who attended promotional events and screenings, but acknowledged that the turnout was lower than expected.

He warned that if sales do not improve by the weekend, the film may be pulled from cinemas prematurely.

He wrote, “I am making this post with a heavy heart. Kilanko sales at the cinemas last weekend weren’t good. That’s why I couldn’t post throughout yesterday.

“Still, I say a very big thank you to everyone who came out at different times for the meet-and-greet, and likewise to everyone who came out to watch, but the numbers are pretty small.

“If Kilanko doesn’t make the expected figure by this weekend. It might be kicked out of the cinemas even before Ramadan is over. Please, we need all the support we can get to reach a retainable figure.

“Kilanko is surely a beautiful movie that everyone must see. Thank you, mama @yetunde_wunmi_ for the prayers”.